Health Information

My son hasn't gone through puberty yet, but sometimes he gets body odor. I wonder if it's time for him to start using deodorant, but I worry that it might be too early.– Shauna

As kids enter puberty, a lot of them start to develop body odor. Different kids start puberty at different times, but boys generally begin between ages 9 and 14.

Deodorants get rid of the odor of sweat by covering it up, and antiperspirants actually stop or dry up perspiration. There's no specific age at which kids can start using it, but they should read the directions. Some work better if they're used at night, whereas others recommend application in the morning.

And it wouldn't hurt to remind your son about some hygiene basics. Encourage him to get into the habit of showering every day. Additionally, he also may want to shower after activities where he's worked up a sweat. Encourage him to wear clean clothes, socks, and underwear each day.

If your son is feeling self-conscious about sweating and body odor, talk with his doctor.

Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.

Society for Adolescent MedicineThe Society for Adolescent Medicine is committed to advancing the health and well-being of adolescents. Their site also offers a locator for adolescent health professionals.

Sexual DevelopmentChanges become more dramatic and complex with the onset of puberty, and kids are likely to have lots of questions. These articles can help you become a trusted source of information, comfort, and support for your kids.

Hygiene BasicsPuberty causes all kinds of changes in your body - and some may not make you feel very desirable. Read this article for information on dealing with greasy hair, perspiration, and body hair.

Talking to Your Child About PubertyTalking to kids about puberty is an important job for parents, especially because kids often hear about sex and relationships from unreliable sources. Here are some tips.

Boys and PubertyOn the way to becoming a man, a boy's body will go through a lot of changes, including your body growing bigger, your voice changing, and hair sprouting everywhere. Find out more.